A Case-(y) for DeSmith

I did want to see a redemption year for Jarry, which makes things a bit more difficult. If Jarry was going to prove he could lead this team into the future, this playoff series would have solidified his roster spot for years to come. Now, who knows how many games we'll see from him in this potential playoff run.

This is also a pivotal year for the Penguins in general with the likes of Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Bryan Rust all becoming free agents after the season concludes. If the Penguins want to prove that this core can remain intact before they have to start a massive overhaul, this is the time to do so. Goaltending is only half the battle, and this whole team needs to show up if they want to advance past this first round. Tonight will surely be a litmus test of what team we will see for the next couple of weeks, and hopefully more.

For now, though, the focus is on DeSmith, and even though he has had his struggles, only winning one game in March, he has bounced back with some great netminding in April. While this is only his 4th season in the league, DeSmith is 30 years old, making him three years older than Jarry. Not exactly what you'd call a spring chicken in any sport, let alone one of the most physically demanding.

If DeSmith wants to make a name for himself, this is going to be his biggest chance to do so. Even more so, if DeSmith can bring home at least a win in MSG, there could actually be a case for him to play over Jarry moving forward. I don't think Mike Sullivan is second guessing if Jarry will start when he returns, but if DeSmith plays on his head, Jarry may be riding the pine for the series. If DeSmith can bring home two wins at MSG, I don't think there would be any question he remains in net for the time being, rendering Jarry the backup. A situation reminiscent of the Murray and Marc-Andre Fleury see-saw that occurred back in 2016.

Obviously, this is all dependent on what happens over the next 3 days. Hockey is a sport built on momentum, and playoff hockey only amplifies that fact.

I want DeSmith to prosper tonight, and for this entire series. I want the Pens to come out guns blazing, and firing on all cylinders. Most importantly, I don't want to have that fleeting feeling the entire playoff run that this is all coming to an end.

I hope DeSmith doesn't lose his liquor license tonight, but no matter what happens, I'll be buying Sam a drink, and getting his dog one too.

(shoutout to the great Mike Lange - we wish you were calling this series, dear friend.)